Latim America is currently the focus point of the Zika virus outrbreak, transmitted by the vector mosquito species Aedes aegypti and Ae. albopictus with European member states, especially those with resident Aedes mosquito species, showing concern with regard of the potential autochthonous cases of virus infection transmitted by Aedes (Dengue, Chikungunya and Zika).

Travel-associated cases of Zika virus infections have been reported in the EU in the past . However, EU Member States are not required to report Zika virus infections to ECDC and the data do not reflect the true number of cases diagnosed in the EU/EEA. As the Zika virus epidemic continues to spread in the Americas and Caribbean, and the awareness of the risk of infection increases among clinicians and travellers, the number of reported travel-related Zika virus infections is expected to increase in the EU. As an example, the Netherlands recently reported six cases returning from Suriname.The Aedes albopictus mosquito species is established in many parts of the EU, primarily around the Mediterranean.(Source ECDC 2015 Nov 20)

Aedes albopictus - known distribution October 2015

Aedes aegypti - known distribution October 2015

Onward transmission from imported cases within the continental EU is possible because Aedes albopictus is a competent vector for the transmission of Zika virus, even though this has not yet been confirmed for European mosquito populations. The risk of transmission of Zika virus infection is extremely low in the EU during winter season as the climatic conditions are not suitable for the activity of Aedes albopictus mosquito. The capacity of European populations of Aedes albopictus to transmit Zika virus is not known but is anticipated and should be assessed.

Other EU Outermost Regions (OMRs) and Overseas Countries and Territories (OCTs) on other continents where mosquito vectors are present such as La Réunion and Madeira are at risk of establishment of local transmission should the virus be introduced. Madeira is of concern because of the close relationship with Brazil and Venezuela where Zika virus is currently circulating, the presence of Aedes aegypti, and the 2012 dengue epidemic which demonstrated the favourable conditions for vector-borne outbreaks.